About

Gemcorp, Inc. was founded in 1985 by Stephen Turner. There were no truly independent appraisers in the Atlanta area, and he decided it was time to fill that much needed niche.

Mr. Turner is a Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of Americaand has an extensive background in many aspects of the jewelry business. Prior to starting Gemcorp, he was a manager and buyer for a five store, multi-million dollar retailer. While there, he also earned the prestigious title of Certified Gemologist-Appraiser from the American Gem Society (AGS). In addition of being an Associate Member of the Gemological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A), Mr. Turner is a Senior Certified Member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers and active in that organization.

Over the years, and continuing to this day, specialty courses on appraising and gemology are a priority for the gemologists at Gemcorp. These have included programs from the International Society of Appraisers (ISA), the American Society of Appraisers (ASA), the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA), the Accredited Gemologists Association (AGA), the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the Master Valuer Program.

Having received training as a bench jeweler and in watch repair, Mr. Turner brings a unique perspective to the quality analysis of jewelry construction and condition. On numerous occasions, a potentially devastating loss has been prevented on new jewelry because we examine the entire "health" of an item, as well as its value. In a time where we are all price conscious, there is a great temptation by merchants to cut corners on quality to offer lower prices. Our active lifestyles today are much harder on jewelry than times in the past. It is advisable to have any item that is regularly worn inspected by a professional bench jeweler every six months.

The ideal appraiser has a wealth of experience working across all levels of the marketplace. A retailer, who also happens to offer appraisals, is often subject to a narrow view and misses the “big picture” required of a quality appraisal. For over 35 years, Mr. Turner has applied an educated view of fundamental valuation principles while studying commercial market behaviors. Count on your comprehensive valuation report to be easy to understand as it equips you with the true value of your gem's current worth.